Have you found your Ikigai?

Finding My Ikigai: How Teaching and Training Became My Life’s Work

In the heart of our lives lies a beautiful concept from Japanese culture called Ikigai. Loosely translated, Ikigai means "reason for being" or "the thing that gets you out of bed in the morning." It’s the meeting point of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.

Finding my Ikigai has been a transformative journey, shaping not only my career but my entire way of living.

What is Ikigai?

Imagine four circles overlapping:

1. What You Love: Your passions and interests.

2. What You Are Good At: Your skills and talents.

3. What the World Needs: How you can make a difference.

4. What You Can Be Paid For: Ways to sustain yourself financially.

At the center of these circles lies your Ikigai — a sweet spot that brings fulfillment, purpose, and joy.

My Journey to Ikigai

For me, finding Ikigai wasn’t an overnight revelation but a gradual unfolding. My business, Breathe for Birth, is not just a career; it’s the embodiment of my Ikigai. As a teacher, I help women prepare for birth and motherhood through breathing techniques, relaxation, and holistic practices. Witnessing the empowerment of families as they navigate pregnancy and birth fills my heart with purpose. As a trainer I extend this knowledge to each of my trainees. Supporting women to build and grow successful businesses that become their very own Ikigai is what makes me jump out of bed in the mornings. My Ikigai is helping you to see, and live, your Ikigai.

Building this business hasn’t just been about supporting others; it’s been about creating a life that aligns with my values. My family is my anchor, and growing a business that fits around what matters most to me has been a gift. Each day, I wake up with gratitude knowing I am doing work that matters deeply to me and to the families I serve.

How You Can Begin to Find Your Ikigai

If you’re searching for your own ikigai, here are some steps to guide you:

1. Reflect on Your Passions: What activities make you lose track of time? What topics light you up? Start by listing everything you love doing.

2. Identify Your Strengths: What are you naturally good at? What skills have you honed over the years? Ask friends and family for their perspective if you’re unsure.

3. Consider the World’s Needs: Look beyond yourself. What problems do you feel called to solve? Where do your passions intersect with making a difference?

4. Explore Financial Viability: How can you monetise your passions and skills? While it’s not all about the money, finding a sustainable way to live your Ikigai is important.

5. Experiment and Adapt: Ikigai is not static. Be open to trying new things, learning, and refining as you go.

Living Your Ikigai

Discovering and living your ikigai is one of life’s greatest joys. It’s not about perfection but about alignment. When your work, passions, values, and needs come together, life feels richer and more meaningful.

If you’re ready to take steps toward finding your Ikigai, start small. Reflect, experiment, and trust the journey. And remember, it’s never too late to create a life that feels truly aligned with your purpose.

Have you found your Ikigai? If you’re still searching, what steps are you taking to discover it? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

If you know that joining our growing family and becoming a Breathe for Birth teacher could well be your Ikigai then please check out the website for all of the information. 

I can't wait to welcome you into the training

Melissa